Garcinia Cambogia is an herb that is high in hydroxycitric acid (HCA). This acid has been studied for its ability to decrease body fat and curb appetite. It is used in many products for weight loss.
It blocks an enzyme, citrate lyase, which your body uses for fat. It raises your serotonin which helps you feel less hungry.
Garcinia has phytochemicals, including flavonoids, that are beneficial for helping the body function better. This herb grows in Southeast Asia and India
There have been studies done for the past few years with inconclusive results. Some are promising; others have found no change in weight.
We do have to remember that some of these studies are funded by and researched by corporate or drug money. Generally, they are done to discredit the herb
That is why many studies may have negative or inconclusive results. It could be due to methods or failure in prescribing incorrect levels, times taken or diet restrictions during the study.
They have found that studies used several types of product that were not high enough in HCA to make a difference. So far, researchers feel that there could be better results if the supplement was taken about 30 minutes before a meal.
You should use a product that has a minimum of 60% HCA, and take it twice daily.
Garcinia has been used for centuries in culinary preparation and flavoring. The ground dried rind of the fruit does lower pH balance. It does help improve body systems due to its anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antibacterial, antiulcer and anti-diabetic properties.
This herb has been used in other traditional health systems….such as in Ayurvedic medicine; that use Garcinia as a purgative for intestinal parasites.
Garcinia Cambogia is also used for bile and digestive related issues. The fruit rind has been used for rickets disease and for enlargement of the spleen and for healing bone fractures.
Dr. Harry Preuss, a researcher from Georgetown University and past president of the American College of Nutrition says “you do have to find the right dose, use the right product and take it properly”.
There may be a few side effects, like headaches or digestive issues. It is not recommended to use during pregnancy.
In conclusion, Yes, Garcinia can help you lose a few pounds but for best results, it should be combined with a weight loss diet of your choosing. Suggest you check out the Whole 30 diet or Ketogenic or Mediterranean – Asian diet.
You may have excellent results if you first try a detox program for the first week along with either intermittent fasting or liquid/juice diet every other day. This will allow you to start losing weight easier.
Then follow up with taking some probiotic supplements to replenish the good bacteria. Then, continue on a good food plan, along with light liquid days so to continue losing a few more pounds if necessary.
References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3748738/
http://alivebynature.com/dont-believe-the-hype-about-garcinia-cambogia/
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Cindy Burrows, B.S., M.T., Herbalist, is a Natural Health Consultant helping individuals start health programs to improve their life, wellness and happiness. Cindy is a speaker, writer and entrepreneur of several businesses.
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